Definition
本质 (běn zhì) is the fundamental essence or nature that makes something what it truly is, beyond surface appearances. It is more philosophical and core than 性质 (xìng zhì, basic inherent characteristics) and contrasts with 实质 (shí zhì), which emphasizes the real substance versus outward form.
noun
essencenatureintrinsic quality
Examples
- 本质。Zhè liǎng gè wèntí zài běn zhì shàng shì xiāngtóng de.These two problems are the same in essence.
- ，本质。Kàn wèntí bù néng zhǐ kàn biǎomiàn, yào zhuāzhù běn zhì.When looking at a problem, don't just look at the surface; you must grasp the essence.
- 本质。Wǒmen yào tōngguò xiànxiàng rènshi shìwù de běn zhì.We must understand the essence of things through phenomena.
Browse more HSK 5 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.